"We don't even know what skills may be needed in the years ahead. We must train our young people in the fundamental fields of knowledge, and equip them to understand and cope with change. We must give them the critical qualities of mind and durable qualities of character that will serve them in circumstances we cannot now even predict." (John Gardner, former US Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, in Excellence)

I note some key phrases here that are pillars of classical education as we seek to practice it: "fundamental fields of knowledge," "critical qualities of mind," "durable qualities of character." While I do not agree with all of Gardner's educational philosophy, these words ring true.

What do you think are the keys to a valuable education, an education that will stand the tests of time and change?